As we move into the summer months, I immediately think about cool evenings enjoyed
outside at barbecues, celebrations, and potlucks. One of my favorites to bring to such a
gathering just so happens to work very well with the 2013 Estate Merlot. This Rutherford
beauty brings to mind bright red and blue fruit notes with a tossing of baking spice to round
out notes of cocoa and slight herbaceous tones. It makes for a perfect pairing with fava bean
and sausage stew with sage and thyme. This hearty stew is balanced with the fine fruits and
herbal strengths of the Merlot; it is pure Rutherford! - Robert Smith, Master Sommelier

The Foley Johnson Estate Merlot is grown on gravelly soils that provide ample drainage to decrease the vigor of
foliage growth. These ideal growing conditions allow our Bordeaux varietals to reach full maturity on the vine
without taking on the green leafy taste of under-ripened fruit. The Merlot was harvested September 24, 2013 under
clear night skies. The wine went through 100% malolactic fermentation and was racked four times throughout the
barreling process. After 19 months of aging in 1-2 year-old French Oak barrels, the wine was bottled in July 2015.

Vineyard Notes

2013 was an exceptional vintage! The warm, dry spring resulted in early bud break, around the same week as last
year’s vintage. Moderate temperatures throughout most of the growing season made for ideal conditions, healthy
vines, and even fruit ripening. October was cool, but sunny which allowed for extended hang times and complete
ripening of the fruit.